Rio: Fringe players can cut it

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Despite the alarming injury problems at Old Trafford, the Red Devils have still been able to book an FA Cup final meeting with Chelsea and progress in the Champions League this week with the likes of Kieran Richardson and Darren Fletcher in particular impressing Ferdinard.

Ferdinard said: "The fringe players are very important. The manager has said all along the players who weren't necessarily playing at the start of the season are the ones who have to come to the fore. They have done that."

The England international added: ""Look at Darren Fletcher. He was magnificent against Roma in central midfield and then he has been asked to play at right-back and looked as though he has been there all his life.

"He is a fantastic all-round footballer, who is now starting to get the credit his footballing talent deserves."

Another player Ferdinand has plenty of time for is fellow Londoner Richardson.

Although Richardson's name received a mixed reception from the United fans when it was read out before kick-off, Ferdinand is certain the 22-year-old has enough ability to make the grade at Old Trafford, and was quick to offer the thumbs up signal when the young England international slotted home a neat fourth to wrap up the weekend scoring.

"I have known Kieran since he was a kid," revealed Ferdinand. "He has not had loads of opportunities to play and sometimes it is difficult in that situation.

"But if he was to come on the market there would be a lot of people wanting to buy him, which tells you what a good player he is."